This information is for the prospective Belgian Shepherd owner,
or anyone interested in a general breed outline.

THE BELGIAN SHEPHERD DOG

ONE BREED FOUR VARIETIES

BACKGROUND/BREED
PERSONALITY/CHARACTERISTICS

First recognised as a breed
in 1891, the Belgian Shepherd Dog was originally bred to herd sheep.

Structurally they are all
the same and differ only in coat and colour.

They are -

long coated black –
Groenendael,

long coated other than
black – Tervueren,

short coated – Malinois,

rough coated –
Laekenois.

With the harmony of his
shape and the proud carriage of his head, the Belgian Shepherd Dog should
give the impression of robust elegance.

They are a medium sized dog
accustomed to the open-air life, built to resist the bad weather of the
seasons and atmospheric variations so frequent in the Belgian climate. A
working breed, the BSD has a double coat, the under coat thick and woolly,
the longer outer coat being harsh and weather resistant.

The BSD is vigilant and
attentive, their look alert and inquiring, indicating their intelligence.
They combine the qualities of a natural instinct to guard property, with an
inborn aptitude for guarding flocks. When necessary they are obstinate and
ardent protector’s of their master/family.

Belgian Shepherd Dogs are
loyal and loving with their family and immediate friends and make the most
wonderful companions and playmates for children. As with any breed, both dog
and child should be taught to respect each other and play gently together.

Most Belgian Shepherds like
water and will often swim and play for hours in the water (with or without
you). Salt water should be rinsed from their coats afterwards.

They can live in perfect
harmony with other pets.

The Belgian Shepherd Dog is
not ‘another type of German Shepherd’, the difference not just in their
looks. The Belgian Shepherd Dog forms a strong bond with their owners and is
quite sensitive to their owners’ moods and reactions. They like to be with
you as much as possible and will often follow you around. They do not like to
be isolated - or left alone for long periods. The BSD is an active dog that
requires physical exercise and mental stimulation. If you are not prepared to
spend the time with them - don’t get one.

These intelligent dogs need
sensible handling, not harsh discipline, to equip them for a full and happy
life with their new family. They are easily trainable and can excel at
Obedience, Agility and Tracking. It will benefit both owner and dog, to have
some basic obedience training.

AVERAGE LIFE SPAN

15 years

AVERAGE SIZE AND WEIGHT

The height at the shoulder
is 60cm to 66cm for dogs and 56 to 62cm for bitches; their weight can vary
from 20kg to 40kg depending on sex and height. The length of the body should
be equal to the height at the shoulder giving the impression of a square dog.

IDEAL OWNERS

Whether as a companion for
a single person or as the family pet surrounded by children - The Belgian
Shepherd Dog is a devoted companion and will return your love. They are
perfect for those wanting an active dog that likes to enjoy life to the
fullest and be part of the family.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE

If you have decided to
purchase a Belgian Shepherd Dog, it is a good idea to check that the parents
of your prospective puppy have been hip scored and are suitable for breeding.
Most breeders in Australia Hip X-ray and score their dogs and breeding stock,
as Hip Dysplasia has been known to have occurred in our breed, as it has in
other breeds.

The continuous and careful
selection of low scoring, Hip X-rayed dogs for breeding is recommended to
reduce the incidence of Hip Dysplasia in a breed.

Recommended reading for a
detailed history of the breed.

THE HISTORY OF THE BELGIAN
SHEPHERD DOG

By Erna Bossi

CARE REQUIREMENTS

The Belgian Shepherd has a
relatively low maintenance coat. A good brush once every week or so, more
often If shedding, paying special attention to the softer coat around the
ears and the longer coat on the britches - this is where the coat is most
likely to mat. Bitches generally shed twice a year around the time of their
season and males usually once a year.

Get your dog used to being
brushed gently with a soft brush whilst still a puppy. A routine groom once a
week is also a good time to check for any grass seeds between the toes, or
long nails that need cutting etc. If done gently and patiently, with lots of
pats and attention your Belgian will look forward to this, its own special
time to be with you, with your undivided attention.

There is no set rule as to
how often to wash a Belgian Shepherd; the best advice is – When they need
one! A good wash when shedding will usually loosen the dead coat, but take
care, if the coat is really matted, you will need to brush the mats out
first.

The breeder of the puppy
you decide to purchase should supply a comprehensive list of general care and
feeding instructions, vaccination and worming details, etc.

RESCUES/DOGS NEEDING
REHOUSING.

Sometimes an older dog may
be available for sale or placement to caring, permanent homes. If you are
interested in what might be available or would like to be placed on our
waiting list, you are welcome to either e-mail or telephone.